Posts Tagged ‘Rock N Roll’

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Live is one of my favorite bands of all time. I’ve seen them a myriad of times on tour, and their music never seems to get old to me. Only problem is, it seemed to get old to them. Solution? Bring together something new. Lead singer, Ed Kowalczyk, is currently touring solo with new single Grace, off the album Alive. Is he as good without his bandmates backing him? Hell yes.

This lead single is intensely strapping. I had the pleasure of meeting him a few weeks back and was given the opportunity to watch him perform this track, and it blew me away upon first listen. It’s a hard-hitting, soaring song: “You were wrong, there was grace. You saw the enemy, I saw your face. People like you and I, spinning from space, you were wrong, I still have faith” — these lyrics can relate to a lot of things, including his separation from the group, or even situations in life.

Ed Kowalczyk is not just a celebrity that makes money playing music; he is an intellectual artist that should be the role model for many forthcoming musicians. His interviews alone prove he is intelligent beyond levels of music. He tells stories without torment or really ever putting people down. Instead, he shares an enlightenment and understanding that few of his contemporaries share. He is truly an exceptional musician and lyricist.

This album will take long time fans, as well as new ones, on quite a ride. Fans of Live will instantly recognize the power of the voice we have all grown to love. This album walks the line of power ballad and alternative music with, well, Grace. It’s ferocious yet passionate, while retaining the spiritual songwriting side he’s always been known for. Ed also did a songwriting collaboration with Chris Daughtry on Drink (Everlasting Love). These songs show that he has entered a new chapter in his life, reigniting the spark in his affiliation with music. Sometimes artists need to move on from groups to take on fresh musical challenges. I am sure that being the front man for multi-platinum selling Live for 15 years has lead to the need for change, while using his experience as inspiration for the solo release.

Ed stated in a recent interview: “You can’t fake inspiration as an artist, you know where you get it.”

Do yourself a favor and check out Ed’s solo release. The songs are like a peek inside specific moments of your life and carry very profound meaning to many. It will truly make you feel Alive.

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

I want to either introduce you or reconnect you with a sonically stunning listening treat. Instruments that blend together in a chaotic fusion, creating a huge sound, without getting lost in an ocean full of clatter. Foxy Shazam; their name is even cool. I found these guys in Spin Magazine’s Top 10 Artists to Watch in 2010. At first glance, my initial reaction of the band was wondering what the hell was going on. It’s merrily overblown pomp-rock that hasn’t ascended since the glory days of Queen (you will see the distinct Queen influence in Oh Lord and Unstoppable). The quintet from Cincinnati is assuring that their self-titled release will tweak the listeners. They’ve stated their goal in various interviews, “to be the biggest, most ostentatious band on the planet”. Front man, Eric Nally, embraces the Adam Lambert/Freddy Mercury similarities; proving high hitting males are vocally vivacious. He’s got the pipes, glam, and attitude to spare. I’ve seen them live, and any musician that sticks lit cigarettes in his mouth for pure entertainment value is a performer in my book (kids, don’t try this at home).

Nally doesn’t want anyone to sticker him or his band as punk (I tend to wonder why people are considering Foxy Shazam punk anyway). But what you may have to wonder is why wouldn’t a band want the stamp of consent from the punk community? After all, many bands have arena success in that genre. Plain and simple, they want their attention to hipsters. The album is pure entertainment entirely, only thing lacking is the direct definition in the lyrics, for I find them confusing at times (“So long to the second floor, it’s been fun but I don’t belong, up there with the industry or up there with you wolves”) — this is a pure example of the oddity brilliance; it blends serious topics with outrageous humor. But in its defense, it keeps you listening to search for deeper meaning. Foxy Shazam has been called the Evel Knievel of Rock N Roll; eccentric enchanting drama rock. They’re a spot on group with various characteristic essentials; a balls-out keyboard player, a kick-in-the-face trumpet player, and a front-man we can’t rave about enough. The theatrics are so predominant in tracks such as Wanna-Be Angel and Killin’ It that it’s almost as if your watching the album in a Broadway theatre. Your ears will pick up a plethora of double-kick drum percussion, and a maniacal mix of piano, for the whole record is fully deranged. Still not convinced? Influences include: Marvin Gaye, Elton John, Van Morrison, and Iggy Pop. That’s like all the popular people in school sharing one locker. Shit, this is genre-defying music if I’ve ever heard it.

This self-titled release is one of the best of the year in my collection. You know why? Because I wanted a throwback to rock’s golden age when go ahead singers weren’t fearful to go a little mad, and the whole endeavor was all about having fun, in an artsy kind of way. And dammit, that’s just what they gave me.

Check out some music that is sexy and attractive, and flat out Foxy.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

[photo by: matt vardy]
Totally diggin’ this video/song at the moment!

There For Tomorrow is out with the music video for the single Deathbed, from their album A Little Faster, and the outcome is pretty radstical (it’s a making up words kind of day).

The energetic heartbreak jam features the band playing in a dark warehouse, with duct-taped microphones smashing the hell outta some TV (and other various objects). Which basically sets perfect against the message of the song (ya know, with deathbeds and all). In all honesty, I think the track meshes perfectly with the video.

Hey, dudes of TFT: I’m really feeling this one!

Check out the Jonathan Bregel-directed video below.

There For Tomorrow – New Music – More Music Videos

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

The Killers are a rock band that have been tearing up the charts for quite some time now. Like most bands, they have gone in different directions, and although I may not always understand their content or videos, I respect that as fresh, entertaining artists. Hot Fuss and Sam’s Town grabbed me by the shoulders and slammed me to the ground, and left me laying there with headphones on. All I kept thinking to myself upon first listen was, damn, it’s about time the punk/new wave movement from the early 80’s got recycled. On the other hand, as time evolved, projects such as Day & Age made me stand up, and move on. I was expecting an album with added synth-pop pressure and maybe even an electronic vibe, and at times it felt too much like a collage of influences as an alternative of a finished album (than again, it still sold a shit load, so my opinion is not the only one). Not that I don’t respect their more current work, just that in my opinion, some things age better than others.

So what now, Killers fans? Front man, Brandon Flowers, has decided to take on a solo-project, as many decide to do at this point in their career. The Vegas native exposed this information on The Killers website, with his name lit up like a neon casino sign on the Las Vegas strip along with an announcement. I don’t know much about this album yet, accept that it is happening. Are they breaking up? No. He’s simply taking a break to pursue other options (it’s not you, it’s him). Flower’s isn’t the only affiliate to embark on additional activity during the Killers’ vacation: Drummer Ronnie Vannucci has been recruited by the new group Mt. Desolation, featuring members of Keane, Noah and the Whale, and Mumford and Sons.

Lead Single Crossfire , off of the album Flamingo (it’s out in September, fyi), did not initially grab my attention, but in the myst of things, I found myself starting to like it more and more. He is very creative and entertaining. It’s wholly developed contemporary pop rock, that is suggestive of some of the tracks from The Killers Day & Age album, which is why I was uncertain if I’d dig it. But this is different; there is more emphasis on Flowers’ vocals and lyrics than on instrumentation. Let’s just say, to quote one of his own lyrics, “It’s a bit older, a little bit colder”. Now that the world has their first petal off Flowers’ solo plant, all can rest secure that the dude isn’t going off track.

At the end of the day, Flowers has deep and meaningful lyrics, and wants a new audience to appreciate his work. Have you heard any of the new material? Listen below; is flying solo always the safe route to travel?

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Welcome to the underbelly of the musical sea, tuned to the key of awesome. Way, deep down here, you’ll find one of the most elusive, breathtaking creatures: My Sister Ocean.

I’m not just sending love to this tripwire twosome ‘cause they’re Canadian (I don’t play nationalistic favourites like that). Their velvety, grinding method of sonic experimentation is leaking with genius akin to morning dew or drips of sweat. Holden’s bass and gravelly singing will spoil your silence to perfection, and the smackdown of Eugenio’s drumming takes you right out of your comfort zone and into somewhere beautiful. Who would think such an earful of bliss could arrive from a band that doesn’t even depend on a guitar?

My Sister Ocean spat out an album earlier this year; let’s just hope they keep it going. For two dashing boys with great hair, they’ve got a lot more power than you’d expect, and a little more darkness than you may be used to rubbing shoulders with. But they’re a torpedo right through your brain, leaving a five inch hole in diameter on your occipital lobe. Don’t ever expect to listen to the duo without having every crack of your soul examined, and every last rusted edge of your brain scrutinized. My Sister Ocean is the shrink without the couch, the morphine without the needle — a devastating bodily experience that doesn’t even leave a scratch. What more can you ask for?

Of course, they’re not all about the mood and gloom. One hit from their slamming songs and you’ll be riding on the high wave of rock past midnight. Whether you’re looking to philosophize or turn it up a notch, they’re an endearing choice. These men are proof that living with a dream is the best way to flare up your talent; they’re always straddling the fence between reality and success.

This very August, they’ll be touring in their maple leaf homeland, and, if I’m lucky, maybe stopping by my city. If you can handle it, then get ready to be sucked into the vacuum of their demanding, surrealist world. Take a listen to Please Don’t Say It’s So, a track that’s got a firm grip on what they’re all about.
　

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Although I write about buckets of talent on BTB, no band compares to Incubus on my radar. I’ve longed for the day when I could write a review about my favorite artist that would be read by others, and the day has arrived. Not unworthy of review, it’s just that Incubus has been on a slight hiatus, and we try to keep things fresh for all you fine folks. A little birdie told me a few months back that lead singer Brandon Boyd was releasing a solo release; I was uncertain what to think. Was the band breaking up? Is Brandon exploring new options? Either way, I was intrigued. Brandon can brag of a music career that has lasted nearly twenty years, and it didn’t happen overnight, for even diamonds start as coal. Years translating into six albums, breathtaking art work, album covers, EP’s and DVDs. Can the man do wrong? I had the pleasure of receiving the album before it hits the shelves, and I have not turned it off all day. Work, car, and home, I am analyzing it, cover to cover, trying to find a word to describe how satisfied I am. He is what I call an artist in the truest sense of the word.

The album is entitled The Wild Trapeze. It’s hard for me to pick the perfect words to describe this album, for his work means so much to me, I don’t want it to be anything but perfect. So in this case, I’ll use his words to grab you. Brandon Boyd describes the origins of the album saying, “This group of songs was born of a very different process than the many my band and I have been employing for our almost two decades at work now. The Wild Trapeze began as pot induced meanderings on my dusty acoustic guitar while Incubus was off of the road, and has slowly been morphing into things that I originally could never have imagined.” An old soul, oozing pure musical bliss.

This album is personal. When I first gave it a spin I almost felt as if I was reading his diary. He wrote every word to every track and performed practically every instrument you hear. Although he could blow most solo artists out the water, don’t fret my pets, Incubus will be recording soon. However, this sounds nothing like the work of the group. Incubus has changed their style throughout the years and Brandon displays a noteworthy development in his guitar playing, as well as picking up essentially every other instrument. Brandon’s many whirlwinds of creativity in art and music takes the listener to places that you haven’t quite visited yet. As far as genre goes, the album is all over the place. It’s like looking at a puzzle; you know it will eventually become a whole, but each separate piece holds a strong significant meaning.

I tend to dream that Brandon is only singing his lyrics to me (hey, just because it’s not Team Edward or Jacob doesn’t mean it’s not allowed), but this record truly feels that way. Each song puts you face-to-face with your emotions in a mirror-like effect. Check out Runaway Train and A Night Without Cars, for these two will push you to jump onboard. A Los Angeles native, a Vegan sympathizer, an artist by day and come nightfall, my favorite singer in the world. Now, back to listening…

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

For more than a decade Papa Roach has been one of rock and roll’s powerhouses, and from personal experience, one of the best damn live bands I’ve ever seen (do yourself a favor and get to the mosh-pit sooner than later). Their feet have been tightly planted in over 10 years of multi-format triumph, so what’s the next step? Please continue.

The boys are set to release their first live album later in the summer, and have laid five new tracks on Time For Annihilation…On the Road and On the Record. Lead single Kick in the Teeth was first exposed to me by a rock-star that I work with at the radio station (yes, that’s my job), and I immediately asked her for the title. It’s so full of energy and momentum it makes me want to get up and scream. This track is sure to ignite rockers globally. I had the pleasure of hanging with a the boys a few months back, and they expressed how they’re ecstatic for the release of the record (that’s me above, the chick).

They’ve recently parted ways with Universal, and are releasing it via Eleven Seven Music. Jacobie Shaddix’s commanding vocals demand what would be damaging aggression — “‘Cuz when it feels like a kick in the teeth, I can take it”. Bad-ass, huh? Another buzz-worthy track is called Burn, which I heard the band debut live, and let’s just say, it does just that. From the dabs that I have heard, the band has matched the strength of their live show releasing a record that annihilates the listener. It hits shelved August 21st, and hopefully they won’t collapse.

Do you think this track has chart-topping potential? Even if it doesn’t reach previous success levels, Papa Roach never seems to disappoint, changing up their style upon each release. Bands evolve, sometimes not for the better, but these guys have a solid decade of hits under their belts, and have aged like a fine wine.

Check out the performance below, and get your mouthguards ready kids, for it’s a Kick in the Teeth.

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

The anticipation is over, and the verdict is in. I was blessed enough to get a sneak peek of The Stone Foxes’ new album (before it’s official release date of July 06), and a blessing it is, indeed. Bravo boys, bravo. Bears and Bulls is spreading like a plague of love; no one can ignore the encompassing sound.

This record is a standing ovation to creation, strangeness, and an altitude of nearly incoherent borderline antics. Some of the songs are lacking their upstanding, toe tapping energy, and mask themselves with a more mellowed tint, but it’s dandy none the less.

My love affair with The Stone Foxes has officially gotten serious. What can I say, I’m a sucker for gentlemen with a charming dream and a deadly chord progression. It hardly takes effort to enjoy their breezy melodies, exemplary guitar solos, and natural ability to either pump it up or tone it down. This is something I could listen to all night long and longer, and that’s no lie.

It’s like the album walks you through the very best stages of a celestial summer: from the cold drinks in the sunny afternoons to the smoked up party in some old friend’s basement. The sips of a slushie, vintage aviators on your eyes, while The Stone Foxes melt around your ears like ice cream…now that’s perfection. They have you set for snapping, crackling, and popping all over the place, but they’ve also got you covered for laying back and laying low.

The Stone Foxes aren’t going to wait for you to come to them, they’re going all out, and will hunt you down and force feed you their unsheathed musical prowess. Trust me, you’re going to enjoy it.

Top tracks off the record for sending me into glee mode: Stomp, Mr. Hangman, as well as the fired up track Hyde and Pine.

Top tracks for a snoozing afternoon: Passenger Train, Through the Fire, and the decidedly chill Easy.

I’m not usually one to vouch for commercialism but: be sure to put it on your ‘to buy’ list! These guys have a spirit and talent that absolutely needs to be supported. We’ve gotta keep their engine running!

Do get ready to run with the Bears and Bulls, ‘cause the stampede of an album is getting here soon.

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

[Update: The choir seen in the video below is the Voice of Praise First Baptist Church High School Choir from Lewisville, TX, performing in New Orleans.]

We all know Lenny Kravitz, infamous for amazing guitar skills, comforting voice, and retro style. We all respect his intrepid rock and alternative sound as it’s poured into our ears. We also know how much the future of music relies on our youth. Right? Now, what happens when the two blend? Great times. Let’s explore in the interior of this rock powerhouse.

I stumbled upon this video, where Lenny was sipping a drink on a terrace in New Orleans, he literally overheard the Voice Praise Choir singing his hit Fly Away. So naturally, like any celebrity would NOT do, he ran over and joined them! He lays down the beat while the choir rocks out, and even sings at the end, while the youngster rips the guitar.

Just a day, an ordinary day in New Orleans turned into the best day of some people’s lives. Witness how much the crowd grows. This just brings a smile to my face. This is what true rock stars should do, spread some love to the ones who have made them who they are — the fans.

A little video to make your glass half full.

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Look at what’s jumped out of the water. Little Fish are a boy (Nez) and a girl (Juju) on a mission to fill the world with a rebellious sound. So far, they’re off to a good start.

When you listen to the duo make music happen, it’s hard to believe they’re just a pair of peeps jamming on the guitar and drums. Like a vigorous chemical, the sound spreads through the whole house, filling it up with eager noise. And best of all, it’s like nothing you’ve heard before.

It’s dominated by the alternative, and not only do you have to sit up and take notice, but you really have to concentrate on what you’re hearing. They’re a puzzle for the eyes and sour candy for the soul.

Since their coming together to spit acid and make magic, the devious duo have been seen touring with righteous acts like Hole and Alice in Chains. Now they’re ready to bulldoze their own path through the trees; their debut album is set to be released September 14, 2010.

If this ass-kicking business of theirs isn’t enough to start a buzz, then I give up on the music industry. Juju’s voice rides on your brainwaves and disrupts your sense of linear time, and Nez’s drums send marches of kamikaze pilots to your chest. They’re loud, refined, and have the mark of true rockers seared on their chests.

Unspoiled and uncommon, yet rank with connection, their songs glimmer in the dark, as if to remind you that the world can have its way with you and spit you back out, but no matter what happens, your spirit can never be shut down. They’re perfect reminders that creativity is the best way to nourish the soul, and genius comes hand in hand with eccentricity.

If they talk about their lifelong venture with music, you can tell they’re stuck on keeping it coming. As Juju says herself, “I think I’m quite odd which is why I find it hard to relate to myself as a musician. But when I get on stage I am at my most free and I feel really confident. When I sing I give it everything.” That’s a sure-fire attitude that’ll rub off on anyone. Sure, they don’t have the stuff that will sing you to sleep at night, but definitely have that something to help you stay up ‘till sunrise.

Their performance in the video for Am I Crazy is guided by a chaotic impulse, highlighted by stomach-turning cinematography. The black and white toning of the vid only further enhances that chilling, erratic mood of the music.

When you watch it, you can just feel as they slither into your thinking cap and stay there. Let’s all ride down to Crazytown. I hear it’s beautiful there.
　

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Remember the low-class, grunge-loving rock n’ roll style of the seventies? One might think that kind of epic glory could not be found in a band still in its infancy, but these boys have got the grimed up, classic edge that seemed to have died long ago, reviving the style with a signature stamp.

When you listen to The Stone Foxes, you’re not only getting a breezy soundtrack, but you’re getting warped into a different time zone. And that air of surrealism only makes the band more lovable.

From the balmy streets of San Francisco, comes a foxy turbulence one won’t quickly forget. When you can’t get wrapped up in the conversation or literature that’s at hand in an afternoon, then music is the way to go. And The Stone Foxes are rock solid entertainment. Even their low-key demeanour is a relentless beat that makes your foot go tapping. Their ironic, witty expressions combat against the musical bullets ricocheting off the walls, while their guitars hold the unsettling hint of country twang. That kind of keen mix splices your heart with the totality and severity of a slow, massive hit. All in all, the perfect rock n’ roll experience.

Their second album Bears and Bulls, is going to be on store shelves July 6 (pre-sale through Itunes is on June 29), and the wait is full of anticipation. Thankfully, they’ve already released some tracks from the album, including the juicy I Killed Robert Johnson, which is definitely a slice of the promised land. The song featured in the video below is Stomp, which I just had to choose, not only for the spice in the number, but the psychedelic fest that is the music video.

Grow out your hair and leave your home behind; The Stone Foxes are here for you.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

According to Rolling Stone, Grace Potter & The Nocturnals is one of the best bands of 2010. This past weekend I had the pleasure of rocking out with the act (live in concert via Webster Hall), to put that statement to the test. And the outcome was incredible. Meshed with a stage backdrop that oozed of metallic crinkled plates, flashing lights, and red roses, Grace Potter’s signature pipes still somehow managed to overpower all of it, soul thirsty and soul-full, worn and rugged like a good pair of cowboy boots.

Several images stick out when I recall the concert, the first being Grace’s long legs, bronzed and towering. Wearing a thigh-high slinky dress, Potter boogied with as much sex appeal as there was sheer talent. Among the image of legs and vintage clothing, came the next photographic moment when the band was performing Big White Gate and I looked around the room to see one of the most diverse crowds I had seen since seeing Madonna live in concert at Madison Square Garden. Middle-aged men mixed with twenty-somethings stood mesmerized, sipping on liquid in plastic cups, singing, knowing, every single word as it burst from Potter’s lips. And it hit me then that the retro influence of the band is so utterly authentic that even men and women (who were my age during the height of those days) were clearly just as infatuated with Grace Potter & The Nocturnals’ music as they were with legendary classic rock bands from the 60s and early 70s, the same bands that inspire the howl of the Nocturnals.

Grace Potter & The Nocturnals are indeed one of the best acts I’ve seen live. The vocals are incredible, the lyrics saturated in a depth of love and heartbreak, the styling coated in a bygone era of rock ‘n roll.

Get ready to take a roadtrip through your headphones.

Click to listen to the band cover Blondie (live during the show).Grace Potter & The Nocturnals – Heart of Glass (Live from Webster Hall)

Check out an additional live performance (Tiny Light via TES), below.

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Here’s a lady who needs no introduction.

She’s beaten cancer, found the love of her life, and shelled out a slough of platinum selling records. And all the while, she has remained an unfaltering rock icon, a jewel amidst the swill. She’s Bif Naked, and her awesomeness is limitless. By far, she ranks in my list of female (and vegan) rolemodels, and will always hold the title of Most Kickass. All of her bases are covered, from her raw talent to her visceral energy when performing, to her innovative musical technique.

Her look and lyrical style are all about uniqueness, driving in the exact opposite direction from the rest of the crowd. That’s the way she’s always been, and that’s the way she’ll remain. Bif has been one to experiment with different musical styles (who can forget the ultra-techno track Spaceman), and is never afraid to give it her all and pick herself up.

Her vocals are backed by a styling crew of mash-it-up maniacs, and although the band members have changed over the years, they always seem to have perfect chemistry. This sizzling beauty is not even close to shutting down; her most recent album was just out last year, and she’s keeping herself busy with touring and sponsoring an exorbitance of charities. Whether it’s The Breast Cancer Foundation or Habitat for Humanity, Bif Naked is all over it. For a lady who’s had to bash her own personal demons, she sure has got a full agenda. Guess she’s a good inspiration to get out there and lend a helping hand, even if we’re not in the best place in our lives.

So many of her songs have become my go-to sound for unleashing the attitude gene. It’s clear where that drive in her music comes from! Her latest album gets back to basics, ripping into the core of struggle, pain, and perseverance (no doubt a lot of which was inspired by her battle with cancer). Her pieces can set you into such a melodious mood, that you’ll be screaming from the rooftops in no time.

With enough steam in her voice to cloud up windows, Bif Naked has become a lady of all trades, and has always come out a conqueror.

Rocking pipes? Check. Unbelievable motivation? Check. Rocker chic? Check. Love for life, for peace, for smooth tunes? Check, check, and check. One song from her 2009 album Promise called Sick really hit hard on me. It came out almost a year ago exactly, but the power hasn’t dwindled. You can check out the video below.

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Releasing art outside of your group doesn’t always mean there’s bad blood. Sometimes those Gym Class Heroes just need to graduate. Yes, I’m writing about Travie McCoy, and his first solo debut, The Lazarus Project. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Travie, experiencing his project on the road, and even providing promotional support through his label, and I can honestly say, his talent is raw. His performances are almost like watching poetry readings on 5 hour energy shots; confusing yet amazing. This New York pop-punk rapper is unique in everything from his style to his lyrics, for he is not afraid of the act of expressing himself. Although catchy, radio smash Billionaire may not be your forte, his art remains cool.

He’s playing melodies and heating up his singing voice with collaborations from Cee-Lo, personal favorites Chester French. The Lazarus Project will let all see another side of Travis, by proving himself to a community that may not always take him seriously. Don’t expect auto-tune, for this is the real deal.

Earlier this year he split with pop mega tart Katy Perry, and released his Forgetting Katy Perry mixtape. Normally you would never see me supporting celebrity gossip in my write-ups, but it’s necessary research for the core of the album. The healing process takes a turn on this project as his somber sad-sack tones finally see the light. Song Don’t Pretend is a hard-hitting healing process: “Open up my chest and you’ll see a cold cavity where my heart used to be”. Although it sounds dreary, this album is upbeat as all hell, turning bad to good.

This may be a different pick for your liking, but I have a feeling you are going to enjoy exploring this album. Travie recently stated in an interview, “If Lazarus were a movie, it’d be A Clockwork Orange”. Although it’s got a hip-hop vibe, rock n’ roll storms in during “Superbad”, a smash with another ravish talent, Limp Bizkit axeman Wes Borland.

A disc compacted with teaming up with a diverse array of studio superstars for a genre-busting, groundbreaking new collection. If you want to experience a great musical performance, catch him on the road this summer with 3OH!3 and Cobra Starship. Turning the scribbled lines between hip-hop and rock into a perfect picture, with no fillers or skippable tracks.

Although Travie may not be rollin in Gym Class, this album proves he’s still a hero.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Two of our favorites are releasing albums today: Christina Aguilera with Bionic / Grace Potter & The Nocturnals.

BTB is hosting our first ever contest and you could have a chance at winning Christina Aguilera / Grace Potter prize packs. Follow these quick rules to enter!

1. You MUST “like” BiggerThanBeyonce.Com via Facebook. To join, click on the link in the sidebar.

2. You MUST suggest the Facebook fan page to each of your friends. Spread the love, no haters.

3. Once you do those two things, send an email to robbrayl@robbrayl.com: State a good deed you have performed lately (big or small). Also list any charitable organization you feel connected to. Tell us a little about why you feel connected to this organization. The more real, the better.

[Deadline: Noon, Friday 06.11]

The winners will receive notification via email + a shout out!